Specialty coffee, the nectar of the gods, is a transcendent taste experience that takes us to the heart of the distant and mysterious lands where it was born. It embodies the art of roasting and the unique expression of terroirs, while celebrating authenticity and diversity.
The emergence of specialty coffee
A revolution is underway in the world of coffee. Specialty coffee, sometimes called "third-wave coffee", is the result of a movement to transcend the limits of standardized commercial coffee. In this enchanted world, coffee is not simply a beverage, but a story told through every cup.
The journey of the coffee beans
To understand the essence of specialty coffee, it's necessary to delve into the fascinating journey of coffee beans, from their origin to our cup. Specialty coffee varieties often come from exotic countries such asEthiopia, Kenya, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Panama, Brazil and many others. Each of these countries brings its own magic, its own flavor to the world of coffee.Arabica and Robusta are the two most commonly grown coffee varieties in the world. However, specialty coffee is distinguished by the pursuit of rare and exquisite varieties, such as Geisha, Bourbon, Pacamara and many others. These exceptional varieties, with their unique taste profiles, arouse the wonder of coffee connoisseurs.
The Quest for Perfection
Specialty coffee doesn't just grow in picturesque regions; it's also cultivated with meticulous care. Specialty coffee growers, such as Ethiopian farmers in the Sidamo mountains, Colombian farmers in the Huila highlands, or Costa Rican farmers in the Tarrazu valleys, are committed to creating optimal conditions for their precious crops. Rigorous bean selection, organic cultivation, respect for traditional harvesting methods and constant quality monitoring are key elements in the production process. Each step is a carefully orchestrated dance that leads to the creation of a coffee that transcends the boundaries of delicacy.
Dazzling figures for specialty coffee
Specialty coffee, though nestled in the world of coffee, continues to grow and amaze taste buds the world over. To better understand its magical expansion, let's take a closer look at some illuminating figures:
- World production: In 2021, world coffee production reached around 171 million bags of 60 kilograms each, according to the International Coffee Organization (ICO). However, only a fraction of this production is dedicated to specialty coffee, making it a rare gem.
- Production by Continent :
- Latin America: Latin America, cradle of many specialty coffee varieties, produced around 84 million bags in 2021, according to the ICO.
- Africa: Africa contributed around 19 million bags of coffee in 2021, with much of this production coming from countries such as Ethiopia, Kenya and Rwanda, which are renowned for their specialty coffees.
- Asia: Asia produced around 49 million bags of coffee in 2021, with countries like Indonesia and Vietnam playing a significant role.
These figures, though modest compared to total coffee production, reveal the steady growth of specialty coffee and its enduring enchantment in the coffee world.
The bright future of specialty coffee
Specialty coffee, with its enchanting aura, offers an unparalleled taste experience. It transports us to distant lands, awakens our senses, and connects us to a rich and diverse culture. As its popularity continues to grow, it's essential to recognize the hard work of the coffee growers and roasters who shape this wonderful world.
In conclusion, specialty coffee is much more than just a beverage; it's an invitation to explore, savor and celebrate the magic of faraway lands with every sip. By supporting this movement, we're helping to preserve the re-enchantment of coffee, while immersing ourselves in its infinite splendor. Let every cup be an adventure into the enchanted world of specialty coffee, where every drop tells an extraordinary story.
